Our Mission
The ALLICE Collective enhances mental well-being in Black communities by addressing barriers to connection and belonging. Through culturally relevant support groups, creative wellness programs, and accessible counseling, we empower individuals and families to nurture healthy relationships and create communities rooted in strength, healing, and shared purpose.
Who is ALLICE?
Check out this article from Shoutout HTX with our Founder & Executive Director, Dr. Allison Bates, LCSW-S, where she discusses her grandmother, Alice Bates, what inspired her to start The ALLICE Collective, and her vision for the organization.
Article Link: SHOUTOUT HTX & DR. ALLISON BATES, LCSW-S
ABOUT US
The ALLICE Collective is dedicated to enhancing the mental and emotional well-being of Black communities by addressing one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, aspects of health—connection. We believe that thriving individuals and families are built on the foundation of strong, supportive relationships.
Our work begins with creating accessible spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Through free support groups, innovative youth programs, and affordable counseling services, we help individuals build the tools they need to navigate challenges and grow stronger together. These services are not just about addressing immediate needs—they are about creating lasting change by fostering the kind of community support that leads to resilience, belonging, and empowerment.
For Black communities facing systemic barriers to care, our programs fill critical gaps, meeting people where they are and offering resources that honor their lived experiences. From youth learning to build confidence and connection to adults navigating the complexities of relationships and mental health, our approach is grounded in cultural relevance and the belief that community is a powerful catalyst for healing.
The ALLICE Collective stands as a bridge for those seeking both support and strength, offering more than just services—we provide a pathway to better mental health through connection, understanding, and shared purpose.
Fall 2024 Graduate Interns
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Jasmine Addison
Mental Health Counseling
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Ashely Baldridge
Social Work
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Julienne Christian
Social Work
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Dr. Anthony Iroko, LCDC
Mental Health Counseling
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Shaobeny Johnson
Marriage and Family Therapy
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Thomas "TJ" Johnson, V
Mental Health Counseling
WHY COMMUNITY MATTERS
The African American community, enriched with history, resilience, and vibrancy, is also marked by unique emotional and psychological challenges borne from historical traumas, systemic injustices, and daily microaggressions. However, throughout history, our communities have been a testament to the power of unity, resilience, and the healing potential of strong community ties. In a world where mental health challenges continue to grow, the focus of The ALLICE Collective is to harness this innate strength of connection to foster individual and collective well-being.
Leadership
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Dr. Allison Bates, LCSW-S
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Dr. Charlee King, MPH, MCH, CLC, CHW
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Gwendolyn Black, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-BC
Treasurer
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Talisa Smith
Secretary